Main Convent, also known then as CHIJ (Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus) on Brewster Road (now Jalan Sultan Idris Shah), Ipoh, was a prestigious school. Studying at a convent entitled you to a somewhat elite education, something akin to that of international schools or the smart schools of today.
The day began at 7 every morning, with the shrill ringing of the school bell piercing the cold morning air amid sounds of scuttering feet gathering to assemble in the open grounds. Then, we would walk in files, taking turns to join the brisk walk to the adjoining classrooms. Latecomers would be “held back”, for a warning for first-time offenders or for more serious punishment for the “hard core”.